Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has explained why “most teams, except Liverpool,” have struggled with instability this season.
Guardiola attributes this to the intense fixture schedule, which he believes is taking a toll on Premier League teams. He pointed out that, unlike Liverpool, most teams have been plagued by injuries as a result.
The Catalan coach also referenced former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who shares similar views on the issue.
Teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City have all been hit with significant injury problems this season. Key players such as Bukayo Saka for Arsenal and Rodri for City have spent time on the sidelines.
Ahead of Manchester City’s Week 25 match against Newcastle United, Guardiola addressed the press:
“I always expect injuries during the season. Not as many as we’ve had, but it’s not just a problem for Man City. You see the same at Tottenham, Arsenal, right now, most teams except Liverpool, who have been stable in that regard all season. Real Madrid, too. Many teams. The solution to prevent that? I think Jürgen Klopp and I have said it before – it’s the calendar. I don’t see another reason for all the injuries.”
This season has arguably been Guardiola’s toughest at Manchester City. Currently, City sits fifth in the league, 16 points behind leaders Liverpool.